Formula 1 Announces Cadillac as New Team for 2026
Introduction
American car manufacturer Cadillac will become the eleventh team on the Formula One grid in 2026 after the sport’s owners announced Monday they had given their backing to the plan. This news marks a significant development in the world of Formula 1, as the sport continues to evolve and expand its global reach.
Preliminary Agreement
Formula 1 has reached "an agreement in principle" with General Motors (GM), which owns Cadillac, to support bringing a team into the paddock. The agreement is a major milestone for both parties, as it marks the beginning of a new era for Cadillac in the world of motorsport.
Background
Formula 1 has maintained a dialogue with General Motors, and its partners at TWG Global, regarding the viability of an entry following the commercial assessment and decision made by Formula 1 in January 2024. Over the course of this year, they have achieved operational milestones and made clear their commitment to brand the eleventh team GM/Cadillac, and that GM will enter as an engine supplier at a later time.
Car Power
The cars are expected to be powered by Ferrari before it develops its own engines. This move marks a significant shift in the sport, as it marks the first time that Ferrari will not be the primary engine supplier for a new team.
Background
The move comes after Formula 1 rejected the bid which was headed up by Andretti – owned by Michael Andretti, son of 1978 world champion Mario Andretti – earlier this year. Nearly a fortnight ago, GM announced it had registered with the FIA to become a Formula One engine manufacturer from 2028, offering support to Andretti’s bid to join the F1 grid.
The Future
The Andretti name has since been dropped from the proposal with Michael no longer involved, although Mario is understood to be taking on an ambassadorial role. The arrival of Cadillac marks a significant milestone for the sport, as it marks the first time that an American car manufacturer has entered the world of Formula 1.
Quotes
"It’s an honour for General Motors and Cadillac to join the world’s premier racing series, and we’re committed to competing with passion and integrity to elevate the sport for race fans around the world," said GM president Mark Reuss.
Conclusion
The arrival of Cadillac marks a significant development in the world of Formula 1, as the sport continues to evolve and expand its global reach. With the support of General Motors, Cadillac is set to make a major impact on the sport, and we look forward to seeing the progress and growth of this new team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does this mean for the sport of Formula 1?
A: The arrival of Cadillac marks a significant development in the world of Formula 1, as the sport continues to evolve and expand its global reach.
Q: What is the timeline for the arrival of Cadillac in Formula 1?
A: Cadillac is expected to join the grid in 2026.
Q: Who will power the Cadillac cars?
A: The cars are expected to be powered by Ferrari before it develops its own engines.
Q: What happened to the Andretti bid?
A: The Andretti name has since been dropped from the proposal with Michael no longer involved, although Mario is understood to be taking on an ambassadorial role.